Alignment tool for positioning and aligning tubular sections

ABSTRACT

An alignment tool for positioning and aligning the adjacent ends of pipes in optimum desired relation for joining the tubular sections by welding. The alignment tool comprises a first and second annularly shaped clamping rings and a plurality of swivel assemblies connecting and circumferentially spaced about the first and second clamping rings, wherein the swivel assemblies adjust the distance between the first and second clamping rings and adjust the first and second clamping rings transversely and axially with respect to each other. Each swivel assembly comprises a first swivel portion connected to the first clamping ring, a second swivel portion connected to the second clamping ring, and a threaded bolt extending through the first swivel portion and the second swivel portion. The first swivel portion comprises an axel alignment swivel including a longitudinal shaft with a first partial spherical portion at its center, wherein the first partial spherical portion is retained within a bore extending through the first clamping ring. The second swivel portion comprises a second partial spherical portion that is retained within a bore extending through the second clamping ring.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/817,257, filed Aug. 4, 2015, which the entire contents of theseapplications are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an alignment tool forpositioning and aligning tubular sections, and more specifically to atool used in positioning and aligning the adjacent ends of tubularsections, such as pipes, tubes, fittings, structural arrangements, andthe like, in optimum desired relation for joining the tubular sectionsby welding.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Pipe welding to join pipes and fittings is a technique utilized in manyindustries ranging from residential to industrial construction projects,including, but not limited to, pipelines for oil, gas, water, etc., aswell as power, pulp and paper, petro-chemical, food and drug processing,and ship and submarine building and repair industries. Pipes were usedto be joined together via consumable rings or inserts inserted betweentwo pipe ends to hold the two pipes together during welding. However,these consumable rings or inserts have a short life cycle when exposedto atmospheric conditions, thus requiring that prefabricated pipemodules be fitted and joined in a relatively short period of time.Otherwise, the consumable ring must be replaced requiring that thefitting procedure be restarted.

To assist in the welding process, a variety of pipe alignment tools weredeveloped to radially position and align the ends of pipes and pipefittings together to be joined by welding. The tools longitudinallyalign two ends of pipe sections in relation to each other. These pipealignment tools generally include two spaced apart rings, lugs, orchains mounted on pipe ends to be joined. The rings, lugs, or chains aremounted and adjusted using a plurality of screws and bolts. Somedrawbacks of these tools are that they are bulky, heavy, and difficultto maneuver. The plurality of screws and bolts require long assemblytime.

In addition, most of the currently available tools are used to join twostraight pipe sections together. While there are tools available thatenable joining a straight pipe to an elbow or ell-fitting, many of thesetools fit only one type of pipe or fitting connections. As such,separate tools are required to fit different types of connections—e.g.,one tool to fit a straight pipe to pipe connection and another tool tofit pipe to ell-fitting connection. An existing tool that attempts tosolve this problem utilizes a pair of closely spaced rings mounted inshort proximity to the pipe ends, which are usually coextensive.However, not all pipe ends have enough space to mount such an alignmenttool. Also, because of the proximity of the tool rings, this toolhinders the workspace of the welder who needs to get in between the piperings to weld the pipes. In addition, many tools are only capable offitting over a pipe with perfectly rounded cross section, but not, forexample, over the ends of tee pipe fitting or cross pipe fittings withimperfect cross sections formed due to the bend of the branch portion ofthe fitting.

Thus, there is a need for an alignment tool for positioning and aligningtubular sections that is compact, light weight, greatly speeds upattaching the tool to tubular sections, and which can be used to joinvarious types of pipes and pipe fittings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide an alignment tool forpositioning and aligning tubular sections that is compact, light weight,and which greatly speeds up attaching the tool to tubular sections, suchas pipes, tubes, fittings, structural arrangements, and the like.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment tool that canbe used to join various types of pipes and pipe fittings, such asstraight pipes, elbow or ell-fittings, tee pipe fitting, cross or 4-waypipe fitting, or any combinations thereof.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment tool that iscapable of bringing the ends of the pipes to be joined towards and awayfrom each other, transversely in relation to each other, and in angularrelation to each other to accurately, positively, quickly and easilyposition adjacent ends of the tubular members in optimum desiredrelation for joining the pipes by welding.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment tool thatclamps on pipes or pipe fittings by means of an adjustable toggle clamp,which increases the speed the tool is attached to the pipes or pipefittings.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment toolcomprising cutouts on its exterior surface that help accessing jointsbetween pipes and pipe fittings, such as elbow fitting, during welding.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment toolcomprising cutouts on its interior surface that allow the tool to beclamped to transitioning areas of elbow or tee fittings.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alignment toolcomprising a pair of clamping rings and various components disposedwithin the tool such that they are located substantially within theouter circumference of the clamping rings, giving the tool a smallprofile.

In one embodiment, the alignment tool of the present invention comprisesa first and second annularly shaped clamping rings and a plurality ofswivel assemblies connecting and circumferentially spaced about thefirst and second clamping rings, wherein the swivel assemblies adjustthe distance between the first and second clamping rings and adjust thefirst and second clamping rings transversely and axially with respect toeach other. Each swivel assembly comprises a first swivel portionconnected to the first clamping ring, a second swivel portion connectedto the second clamping ring, and a threaded bolt extending through thefirst swivel portion and the second swivel portion. The first swivelportion comprises an axel alignment swivel including a longitudinalshaft with a first partial spherical portion at its center, wherein thefirst partial spherical portion is retained within a bore extendingthrough the first clamping ring. The second swivel portion comprises asecond partial spherical portion that is retained within a boreextending through the second clamping ring. Each of the first and secondclamping rings comprises a first and a second semiannual segments eachradially extending from a first end to a second end. The first ends ofthe first and second semiannular segments are interconnected usingdouble hinge joints and the second ends of first and second semiannularsegments are interconnected using toggle clamps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the invention can be obtained by reference toa preferred embodiment set forth in the illustrations of theaccompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiment is merelyexemplary of systems, methods, and apparati for carrying out theinvention, both the organization and method of operation of theinvention, in general, together with further objectives and advantagesthereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings andthe following description. The drawings are not intended to limit thescope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in theclaims as appended hereto or as subsequently amended, but merely toclarify and exemplify the invention.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an alignment tool as it is used tojoin the ends of two pipe sections according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 in agreater detail;

FIG. 3A shows a front view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 in a closedposition;

FIG. 3B shows a front view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 in an openedposition;

FIG. 4 shows a top view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a right side view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of a swivel assembly of the alignment toolaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 6taken along line 7-7 in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 8A shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 6taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 8B shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 6taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 3A illustrating how the alignment tool istransversely adjusted in one direction;

FIG. 8C shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 6taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 3A illustrating how the alignment tool istransversely adjusted in an opposite direction;

FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 as itis used to join the ends of a straight pipe segment to an elbow orell-fitting;

FIG. 9B shows a side view of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly taken alongline 9-9 in FIG. 9B;

FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 as itis used to join the ends of a straight pipe segment to one end of alongitudinally cylindrical body of a tee pipe fitting;

FIG. 10B shows a front view of a clamping ring attached to the tee pipefitting of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of the alignment tool of FIG. 1 as itis used to join the ends of a straight pipe segment to a branch portionof the tee pipe fitting;

FIG. 11B shows a front view of a clamping ring attached to the tee pipefitting of FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an alignment tool according toanother embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 shows a right side view of the alignment tool of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14A shows a front view of the alignment tool of FIG. 12 in a closedposition;

FIG. 14B shows a front view of the alignment tool of FIG. 12 in anopened position;

FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of a swivel assembly of the alignmenttool of FIG. 12 according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 16A shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 15taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 14A; and

FIG. 16B shows a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly of FIG. 15taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 14A illustrating how the alignment toolis transversely adjusted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention may be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of a preferred embodiment of theinvention. However, techniques, systems, and operating structures inaccordance with the invention may be embodied in a wide variety of formsand modes, some of which may be quite different from those in thedisclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural andfunctional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet inthat regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposesof disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein, which definethe scope of the invention. It must be noted that, as used in thespecification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and“the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise.

The present invention provides a tool used in positioning and aligningadjacent ends of tubular sections, such as pipes, tubes, fittings,structural arrangements, and the like, in optimum desired relation forjoining the tubular sections by welding. The tool of the presentinvention may be used to position and align tubular sections used inmany industries, including, but not limited to residential or industrialconstruction projects, pipelines for oil, gas, water, etc., and power,pulp and paper, petro-chemical, food and drug processing, and piping inships and submarines, as well as repair industries. The design of thetool of the present invention is compact, light weight, greatly speedsup attaching the tool to tubular sections, and which can be used to joinvarious types of pipes and pipe fittings, including, but not limited tostraight pipes, elbow or ell-fittings, tee pipe fitting, cross or 4-waypipe fitting, or any combinations thereof. The tool of the presentinvention is capable of bringing the ends of the pipes to be joinedtowards and away from each other, transversely in relation to eachother, and in angular relation to each other to accurately, positively,quickly and easily position adjacent ends of the tubular members inoptimum desired relation for joining the pipes by welding.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 of the drawings, there is shown an alignmenttool 100 for positioning and aligning the ends of first and second pipesections 111 and 112. While tool 100 is described herein as aligningpipe section, tool 100 of the present invention may be used to join anytypes of tubular sections as described above. FIG. 1 shows a perspectiveview of the alignment tool 100 attached to first and second pipesections 111 and 112; FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the alignmenttool 100 in a greater detail; FIG. 3A shows a front view of thealignment tool 100 in a closed position; FIG. 3B shows a front view ofthe alignment tool 100 in an opened position; FIG. 4 shows a top view ofthe alignment tool 100; and FIG. 5 shows a right side view of thealignment tool 100. As shown in FIG. 2, tool 100 includes a pair ofclamping rings 101 and 102, interconnected by a plurality of swivelassemblies 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c. In a preferred embodiment, threeswivel assemblies 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c are utilized. However, thetool of the present invention may utilize two swivel assemblies, or morethan three swivel assemblies, without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. For example, in large applications, as many as sixswivel assemblies may be utilized for securely holding large pipestogether. Swivel assemblies 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c arecircumferentially spaced about clamping rings 101 and 102. In apreferred embodiment, the various components of the alignment tool 100,including swivel assemblies 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c, are disposed withinthe tool such that they are located substantially within the outercircumference of clamping rings 101 and 102, such as shown in FIG. 3A.As a result, the alignment tool 100 is compact and lightweight.

In one embodiment, clamping rings 101 and 102 comprise substantiallyidentical annular shaped bodies each including two semiannular segments104 and 105. The illustrated clamping rings 101, 102 are shaped and usedto join cylindrical shaped pipes. Alternatively, clamping rings 101, 102may be shaped and used to join other shaped tubing without departingfrom the scope of the present invention, including, but not limited tooval, square, rectangular, or the like. Referring specifically to FIGS.2-3A, first and second segments 104 and 105 radially extend from firstends 104 a, 105 a to second ends 104 b, 105 b (FIG. 3A) and comprisefront surfaces 104 c, 105 c, rear surfaces 104 d, 105 d, inner surfaces104 e, 105 e, and outer surfaces 104 f, 105 f, respectively (FIG. 2).First ends 104 a and 105 a of first and second segments 104 and 105 arepreferably spaced apart and interconnected using a double hinge joint106, which allows the semiannular segments 104 and 105 to be adjustedfrom a closed position (FIG. 3A) to an opened position (FIG. 3B), andvice versa. Each double hinge joint 106 comprises two oppositelydisposed plates or links 106 a and 106 b—first link 106 a being disposedon the front surfaces 104 c, 105 c of first and second segments 104 and105, and second link 106 b oppositely disposed on the rear surfaces 104d, 105 d of first and second segments 104 and 105 (FIG. 2). Links 106 aand 106 b are interconnected using a pair of hinge pins 107 thattraverse the first ends 104 a, 105 a of first and second segments 104and 105.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, second ends 104 b and 105 b of first and secondsegments 104 and 105 are also preferably spaced apart and interconnectedusing an adjustable latch toggle clamp 108. Second end 105 b of secondsegment 105 comprises a recess 110 (FIG. 3B) in the outer surface 105 fof the second segment 105 sized to accommodate the latch toggle clamp108 such that in a closed position the latch toggle clamp 108 issubstantially coextensive with the circumference or outer surface 105 fof the second semiannular segment 105 (FIG. 3A). Toggle clamp 108comprises a rounded locking lever 119 with outer surface configured tofollow the annular shape of the second segment 105. In other words, eachlatch toggle clamp 108 is designed to fit within the outer circumferenceof the clamping rings 101, 102. Locking lever 119 is rotationallysecured to the second end 105 b of semiannular segment 105 via pin 118that traverses the second end 105 b. A U-shaped rod 113 is rotationallysecured to the locking lever 119 via pin 114. U-shaped rod 113preferably comprises threaded ends 115 that extend through bores in theopposing ends of pin 114 such that the rod can be longitudinallyadjusted with respect to the locking lever 119 using hexagonal nuts 116as clearly shown in FIG. 2. Second end 104 b of first semiannularsegment 104 comprises a groove 109 transversely extending on the outersurface 104 f that is used to catch the U-shaped rod 113 therein.

In a preferred embodiment, each clamping ring 101, 102 comprises ascalloped cutout 120 on the outer surface 104 f of the first semiannularsegment 104. However, other shaped cutouts may be utilized withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention, such as, straightcutouts, semi-rectangular cutouts, semi-trapezoidal cutouts, or thelike. When the alignment tool 100 is used to be secured to anell-fitting, for example, the scalloped cutouts 120 help accessing thejoint on the inside radius of the ell-fitting during welding easier, aswill be later described. Additional cutouts 121 (FIGS. 3A-3B) areprovided on the inner surfaces 104 e, 105 e, on each of the first ends104 a, 105 a and second ends 104 b, 105 b of first and second segments104 and 105. Cutouts 121 extend outwardly from the inner circumferenceof each clamping rings 101, 102 to the terminal ends of the first andsecond segments 104 and 105. Cutouts 121 allow the clamping rings 101,102 to clamp on tee fittings, cross fittings, as well as long and shortradius ell fittings, as will be later shown and described.

As previously described, the pair of clamping rings 101 and 102 areinterconnected by a plurality of swivel assemblies 103 a, 103 b, and 103c (FIG. 2), which are circumferentially spaced about the clamping rings101 and 102. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 3A, the first semiannularsegment 104 of each clamping ring 101, 102 is connected to two swivelassemblies 103 a and 103 b, each arranged at each end 104 a, 104 b ofthe first semiannular segment 104. The second semi annular segment 105is connected to a single swivel assembly 103 c disposed at its center.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-8A, FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of theswivel assembly 103 c; FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of theswivel assembly 103 c taken along line 7-7 in FIG. 3A; and FIG. 8Aillustrates a cross sectional view of the swivel assembly 103 c takenalong line 8-8 in FIG. 3A. While only swivel assembly 103 c is beingshown and described in a greater detail, swivel assembly 103 c issubstantially identical to swivel assemblies 103 a and 103 b. As shownin FIG. 7, swivel assembly 103 c comprises a first swivel portion 601connected to the first clamping ring 101 and a second swivel portion 602connected to the second clamping ring 102. First and second clampingrings 101, 102 comprise bores 117 a, 117 b traversely extendingtherethrough for receiving the swivel assembly 103 c. The first andsecond swivel portions 601 and 602 are interconnected via bolt 603. In apreferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4-5, at least one swivelassembly, in this case swivel assembly 103 c, comprises a longer bolt603 such that the alignment tool 100 can be adjusted to fit elbow orell-fittings, as will be later described.

As shown in greater detail in FIG. 6, bolt 603 comprises a shaft 604connected to a head 605. The head 605 may comprise a grade eight socketto enable rotation of the bolt 603 using a complementary tool. Ofcourse, the head 605 may comprise other types of shaped head or shapedrecess for receiving a complementary tool, such as a slot, Phillips, orRobertson recesses, or square or hex shaped heads. Shaft 604 preferablycomprises a groove 607 extending circumferentially thereon. Groove 607is sized to receive a retaining ring or E-clip 606. Shaft 604 furthercomprises threads 611 extending circumferentially about the shaft 604below groove 607.

The first swivel portion 601 comprises a pair of substantially similarretaining plates or saddle shaped portions 608 a and 608 b, a pair ofswivel races 609 a and 609 b, and an axel alignment swivel 610. The axelalignment swivel 610 comprises a longitudinal shaft 621 with a partialspherical portion 622 at its center. The shaft 621 is longitudinallycannulated comprising longitudinal bore 627 for receiving the bolt 603therethrough. The partial spherical portion 622 comprises a longitudinalgroove 624 for retaining a ball 625, which travels along the length ofgroove 624. The shaft 621 comprises longitudinal grooves 623 extendingon each side of the partial spherical portion 622. Each of the pair ofswivel races 609 a and 609 b comprise semicircular grooves 626 forretaining the ball 625 therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 7, the axel alignment swivel 610 extends through thebore 117 a of first clamping ring 101 such that the partial sphericalportion 622 is located within the bore 117 a. The pair of swivel races609 a and 609 b are located on either side of the partial sphericalportion 622 to retain it within the bore 117 a of first clamping ring101. In an alternative embodiment, O-rings may be used to retain thepartial spherical portion 622 within the bore 117 a. Ball 625 is heldwithin semicircular grooves 626 of swivel races 609 a and 609 b (FIGS. 6and 8A). In addition, bore 117 a has a longitudinal groove 628corresponding, aligned, and substantially parallel to longitudinalgroove 624, such that the ball 625 is retained and travels betweengrooves 628 and 624 within the bore 117 a (FIGS. 6 and 8A). Ball 625 isused to hold the axel alignment swivel 610 in place so that it does notturn axially with respect to the first clamping ring 101 when the bolt603 is turned to adjust the gap between the first and second clampingrings 101 and 102. In addition, ball 625 ensures that the transversescrews 617 a, 617 b are maintained centered in relation to thelongitudinal grooves 623 of the axel alignment swivel 610. As shown inFIG. 7, saddle shaped portions 608 a and 608 b are secured to theopposing surfaces of the first clamping ring 101 using rivets 615. Eachsaddle shaped portion 608 a, 608 b comprises a bore 612 a, 612 bextending therethrough for receiving the axel alignment swivel 610. In apreferred embodiment, bores 612 a, 612 b of saddle shaped portions 608a, 608 b comprise smaller diameter than bore 117 a of clamping ring 101such that saddle shaped portions 608 a and 608 b secure swivel races 609a and 609 b therebetween within the bore 117 a. As shown in FIGS. 6 and8A, each saddle shaped portion 608 a, 608 b further comprises atransverse threaded bore 614 a, 614 b for threadably receiving threadedtransverse screws 617 a, 617 b. Threaded screws 617 a, 617 b engage thelongitudinal grooves 623 of the axel alignment swivel 610 to radiallyadjust the axel alignment swivel 610 with respect to the first clampingring 101. Bolt 603 extends longitudinally through bore 627 of axelalignment swivel 610. The first swivel portion 601 is retained betweenthe bolt head 605 and the retaining ring or E-clip 606 secured to groove607 of bolt 603.

Referring back to FIG. 6, the second swivel portion 602 comprises asecond partial spherical portion 631, a pair of swivel races 632 a and632 b, and a pair of retaining plates or saddle shaped portions 636 aand 636 b. The second partial spherical portion 631 also comprises alongitudinal groove 634 for retaining a ball 635, which travels alongthe length of groove 634. In addition, the second partial sphericalportion 631 comprises an inner threaded bore 639 for retaining thethreads 611 of bolt 603. Each of the pair of swivel races 632 a and 632b comprise semicircular grooves 638 for retaining the ball 635therebetween.

Referring to FIG. 7, the second partial spherical portion 631 is locatedwithin bore 117 b of the second clamping ring 102. The pair of swivelraces 632 a and 632 b are located on either side of the second partialspherical portion 631 to retain it within the bore 117 b of secondclamping ring 102. Ball 635 is held within semicircular grooves 638 ofswivel races 632 a and 632 b (FIGS. 6 and 8A). In addition, bore 117 bhas a longitudinal groove 648 corresponding, aligned and substantiallyparallel to longitudinal groove 634 such that the ball 635 is retainedand travels between grooves 648 and 634 within the bore 117 b (FIGS. 6and 8A). As such, ball 635 holds the second partial spherical portion631 in place so that it does not turn axially with respect to the secondclamping ring 102 when the bolt 603 is turned to adjust the gap betweenthe first and second clamping rings 101 and 102. Saddle shaped portions636 a and 636 b are secured to the opposing surfaces of the secondclamping ring 102 using rivets 637. Each saddle shaped portion 636 a,636 b comprises a bore 633 a, 633 b extending therethrough for receivingthe shaft 604 of bolt 603. In a preferred embodiment, bores 633 a, 633 bof saddle shaped portions 636 a, 636 b comprise smaller diameter thanbore 117 b of second clamping ring 102 such that saddle shaped portions636 a and 636 b secure swivel races 632 a and 632 b therebetween withinthe bore 117 b. Bolt 603 extends longitudinally through bore 639 ofsecond partial spherical portion 631, such that threads 611 of bolt 603engage the inner threads of bore 639 of second partial spherical portion631.

In an alternative embodiment, the first swivel portion 601 and thesecond swivel portion 602 are substantially identical, both comprisingeither the adjustable axel alignment swivel 610 or the second partialspherical portion 631 as described above.

The following section describes how the alignment tool 100 is attachedto the first and second straight pipe sections 111 and 112 to alignthese sections as shown in FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 3B, as thealignment tool 100 is in an unclamped position, clamping ring 101 fitsover pipe section 111 by positioning the two semiannular segments 104and 105 around the pipe section 111. The two semiannular segments 104and 105 are brought together around the pipe section 111 such that theinner surfaces 104 e, 105 e of the two semiannular segments 104 and 105contact the outer surface of pipe section 111 (FIG. 3A). Next, the latchtoggle clamp 108 is used to tightly secure the clamping ring 101 aroundpipe section 111. Specifically, the U-shaped rod 113 of latch toggleclamp 108 is placed within groove 109 at the second end 104 b of thefirst semiannular segment 104. If necessary, hexagonal nuts 116 areloosened to longitudinally extend the U-shaped rod 113 such that it canengage groove 109. Once the U-shaped rod 113 is within groove 109, nut116 may be tightened. Then, the locking lever 119 is pulled towards thesecond semiannular segment 105 and clamped in position within recess 110in the outer surface 105 f of the second segment 105. Hexagonal nuts 116may be tightened on threaded ends 115 of the U-shaped rod 113 to bringsecond ends 104 b, 105 b of first and second segments 104 and 105 closertogether, thereby tightening the clamping ring 101 around pipe section111. Clamping ring 102 fits over pipe section 112 in substantially thesame manner as described above with reference to clamping ring 101.

After clamping rings 101 and 102 are connected to pipe section 111 and112, the clamping rings 101 and 102 are adjusted to bring the ends ofpipe section 111 and 112 in contact and in perfect alignment. As shownin FIG. 7, to bring the ends of the pipes 111 and 112 to be joinedtowards each other, head 605 of bolt 603 of each swivel assembly 103 a,103 b, 103 c is tightened forcing threads 611 to further engage theinner threads of the spherical portion 631. As a result, clamping rings101 and 102 are pulled in direction D1 towards each other. Similarly, tobring the ends of the pipes 111 and 112 away from each other, head 605of bolt 603 of each swivel assembly 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c is loosenedforcing threads 611 to unthread from the inner threads of the sphericalportion 631.

Referring to FIGS. 8B-8C, to adjust the clamping rings 101 and 102transversely in relation to each other, the transverse screws 617 a, 617b of each swivel assembly 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c, are either tightenedor loosened as required. Specifically referring to FIG. 8B, tighteningtransverse screw 617 a and loosening transverse screw 617 b will forcethe axel alignment swivel 610 to swivel in counterclockwise direction astransverse screws 617 a, 617 b engage the longitudinal grooves 623 ofthe axel alignment swivel 610. This causes the second partial sphericalportion 631 to also swivel in a counterclockwise direction. Accordingly,first clamping ring 101 will be forced downward in direction D2 andsecond clamping ring 102 will be forced upward in direction D3. FIG. 8Cillustrates how the clamping rings 101 and 102 are adjusted transverselyin a reverse direction. Loosening transverse screw 617 a and tighteningtransverse screw 617 b will force the axel alignment swivel 610 toswivel in clockwise direction as transverse screws 617 a, 617 b engagethe longitudinal grooves 623 of the axel alignment swivel 610. Thiscauses the second partial spherical portion 631 to also swivel in aclockwise direction. As a result, first clamping ring 101 will be forcedupward in direction D4 and second clamping ring 102 will be forceddownward in direction D5. This allows the alignment tool 100 totransversely adjust the ends of pipe sections 111 and 112 so that theyare perfectly longitudinally aligned and coextensive.

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate the alignment tool 100 as it is used to connectand align a straight pipe segment 901 to an elbow or ell-fitting 902.Alignment tool 100 may be used to connect and align similar pipesections in angular relation to each other in the substantially the samemanner. As shown, the clamping rings 101, 102 of alignment tool 100 areadjusted axially in angular relation to each other to bring together andalign the ends of the pipe section 901 and the elbow or ell-fitting 902.As described above and as shown in FIGS. 4-5, to accommodate suchangular connection, at least one swivel assembly of the alignment tool100, in this case swivel assembly 103 c, comprises a longer bolt 603.Referring back to FIGS. 9A-9B, the first clamping ring 101 attachesaround straight pipe section 901 in proximity to its end by securing thelatch toggle clamp 108 as previously described. Preferably, the firstclamping ring 101 is positioned with respect to the straight pipesection 901 such that swivel assembly 103 c is located in proximity ofthe outer bend radius 906 of the ell-fitting 902, and swivel assemblies103 a, 103 b are located in proximity of the inner bend radius 907 ofthe ell-fitting 902.

As shown in FIG. 9B, because of the curved shape of the ell-fitting 902,to attach the second clamping ring 102 to the ell-fitting 902, thesecond clamping ring 102 needs to be pivoted in direction D6 andtransversely displaced in direction D7 with respect to the firstclamping ring 101 until the inner surface of the second clamping ring102 is aligned with the outer surface of the ell-fitting 902 at adesired position. At that position, however, the ell-fitting 902 mayhave a different sloped circumference than pipe segment 901 and theinner diameter of the second clamping ring 102. As described above, thealignment tool 100 of the present invention comprises cut outs 121 onthe inner surfaces 104 e, 105 e, on each of the first ends 104 a, 105 aand second ends 104 b, 105 b of first and second segments 104 and 105(FIG. 3A). As shown in FIG. 9A, as the second clamping ring 102 isclamped around the end of the ell-fitting 902, cutouts 121 of the secondclamping ring 102 provide spaces for any variations in the slopedcircumference of the ell-fitting 902.

To pivot the second clamping ring 102 in direction D6 with respect tothe first clamping ring 101, the longer bolt 603 of swivel assembly 103c is loosened, while bolts 603 of swivel assemblies 103 a and 103 bremain in place or are tightened forcing the second clamping ring 102 topivot in direction D6 way from first clamping ring 101. To transverselydisplace second clamping ring 102 in direction D7 with respect to thefirst clamping ring 101, the transverse screws 617 a, 617 b of eachswivel assembly 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c, are either tightened orloosened as described above. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 9C,second clamping ring 102 pivots with respect to the first clamping ring101 in direction D6 by means of the rotation of the partial secondspherical portion 631 of each swivel assembly 103 a, 103 b, 103 c withinbore 117 b in the second clamping ring 102. Second clamping ring 102 istransversely displaced with respect to the first clamping ring 101 indirection D7 by means of the rotation of the first partial sphericalportion 622 of the axel alignment swivel 610 as transverse screws 617 a,617 b engage the longitudinal grooves 623 of the axel alignment swivel610.

When the second clamping ring 102 is at the desired position withrespect to the ell-fitting 902, it is latched on the ell-fitting 902using the latch toggle clamp 108. Then the alignment tool 100 can befurther adjusted as described above to bring the ends of pipe section901 and ell-fitting 902 in contact and in perfect alignment via furthertightening or loosening bolts 603, and transverse screws 617 a, 617 b ofeach swivel assembly 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c as required.

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, when the first and second clamping rings 101and 102 of the alignment tool 100 are adjusted angularly with respect toeach other, their upper ends proximate to the inner bend radius 907 ofthe ell-fitting 902 are brought closer together, while their lower endsproximate to the outer bend radius 906 of the ell-fitting 902 arebrought further apart. This expands the welding area at the outer bendradius 906 and limits the welding area at the inner bend radius 907 ofthe ell-fitting 902. To expand the welding area at the inner bend radius907 of the ell-fitting 902, the first semiannular segments 104 of eachclamping ring 101, 102 is provided with a scalloped cutout 120. Thismakes the join on the inner bend radius 907 more easily accessible forwelding.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate the alignment tool 100 as it is used to connectand align a straight pipe segment 1001 to a tee pipe fitting 1002. Atypical tee pipe fitting 1002 comprises a longitudinally cylindricalbody 1003 connected to a branch portion 1004 resulting in three ends. Inthis illustration, the straight pipe segment 1001 is being connected toone end of the longitudinally cylindrical body 1003. The longitudinallycylindrical body 1003 transitions to the branch portion 1004 via curvedtransitional sections 1006 a and 1006 b. These curved transitionalsections 1006 a and 1006 b typically hinder the attachment of aperfectly cylindrical alignment tools to either end of the tee pipefitting 1002. Accordingly, the alignment tool 100 of the presentinvention comprises cut outs 121 on the inner surfaces 104 e, 105 e, oneach of the first ends 104 a, 105 a and second ends 104 b, 105 b offirst and second segments 104 and 105 (FIG. 3A). Specifically, cutouts121 extend outwardly from the inner circumference of each clamping rings101, 102 to the terminal ends of the first and second segments 104 and105 (FIG. 3A). As shown in FIG. 10B, as the second clamping ring 102 isclamped around one of the ends of the longitudinally cylindrical body1003 of the tee pipe fitting 1002, cutouts 121 of the second clampingring 102 provide space for the curved transitional section 1006 b.

Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, the alignment tool 100 of thepresent invention may be used to connect the straight pipe segment 1001to the branch portion 1004 of the tee pipe fitting 1002. In a typicalconfiguration, the curved transitional sections 1006 a and 1006 b wouldhinder the attachment of a perfectly cylindrical alignment tools to thebranch portion 1004. However, as the second clamping ring 102 is clampedaround the branch portion 1004 of the tee pipe fitting 1002, cut outs121 in the second clamping ring 102 provide spaces on each side of thealignment tool 100 for the curved transitional sections 1006 a and 1006b.

FIGS. 12-16B illustrate another embodiment of the alignment tool. Tool1200 is substantially similar to tool 100, but contains a smallerprofile and is more lightweight. Referring to FIGS. 12-14B, there isshown an alignment tool 1200 for positioning and aligning the ends offirst and second pipe sections 1211 and 1212. FIG. 12 shows aperspective view of the alignment tool 1200 attached to first and secondpipe sections 1211 and 1212; FIG. 13 shows a right side view of thealignment tool 1200; FIG. 14A shows a front view of the alignment tool1200 in a closed position; and FIG. 14B shows a front view of thealignment tool 1200 in an opened position. Tool 1200 includes a pair ofclamping rings 1201 and 1202, interconnected by a plurality of swivelassemblies 1203 a, 1203 b, and 1203 c. Swivel assemblies 1203 a, 1203 b,and 1203 c are circumferentially spaced about clamping rings 1201 and1202. In a preferred embodiment, the various components of the alignmenttool 1200, including swivel assemblies 1203 a, 1203 b, and 1203 c, aredisposed within the tool such that they are located substantially withinthe outer circumference of clamping rings 1201 and 1202, such as shownin FIG. 12. As a result, the alignment tool 1200 is compact andlightweight.

In order to decrease the tool's weight, each clamping ring 1201 and 1202comprises a pair of substantially annular shaped bodies 1231 and 1232(FIGS. 12 and 13), each subdivided into at least two semiannularsegments 1204 and 1205. First and second segments 1204 and 1205 radiallyextend from first ends 1204 a, 1205 a to second ends 1204 b, 1205 b(FIG. 14A), and comprise front surfaces 1204 c, 1205 c, rear surfaces1204 d, 1205 d, inner surfaces 1204 e, 1205 e, and outer surfaces 1204f, 1205 f, respectively (FIG. 12). First ends 1204 a and 1205 a of firstand second segments 1204 and 1205 are preferably spaced apart andinterconnected using a double hinge joint 1206 (FIG. 14A), substantiallysimilar to hinge joint 106. Hinge joints 1206 allow the semiannularsegments 1204 and 1205 to be adjusted from a closed position (FIG. 14A)to an opened position (FIG. 14B), and vice versa.

As shown in FIGS. 13-14B, second ends 1204 b and 1205 b of first andsecond segments 1204 and 1205 are also preferably spaced apart andinterconnected using an adjustable latch toggle clamp 1208. Toggle clamp1208 comprises a locking lever 1219 which is rotationally secured to thefirst end 1204 b of semiannular segment 1204 via retaining plates 1246 aand 1246 b and pin 1218 that traverses the retaining plates 1246 a and1246 b. Retaining plates 1246 a and 1246 b are secured to the first end1204 b of semiannular segment 1204 via rivet 1247. Locking lever 1219comprises a threaded rod 1213 fitted with a spring 1216 as well as ahexagonal nut 1215 and an adjustable plate 1214 that travels along therod 1213. Second end 1205 b of second semiannular segment 1205 comprisesretaining plates 1245 a and 1245 b that are secured to the second end1255 b of semiannular segment 1205 using rivets 1248. Each retainingplate 1545 a, 1245 b comprises a groove 1249 that receives theadjustable plate 1214 therein. Spring 1216 is used to bias theadjustable plate 1214 against the groove 1249.

Each clamping ring 1201 and 1202 comprises a scalloped cutout 1220 onthe outer surface 1204 f of the first semiannular segment 1204. Othershaped cutouts may also be utilized without departing from the scope ofthe present invention, such as, straight cutouts, semi-rectangularcutouts, semi-trapezoidal cutouts, or the like. When the alignment tool1200 is used to be secured to an ell-fitting, for example, scallopedcutouts 1220 help accessing the joint on the inside radius of theell-fitting during welding easier, as previously described. Additionalcutouts 1221 (FIG. 14A) are provided on the inner surfaces 1204 e, 1205e, on each of the first ends 1204 a, 1205 a and second ends 1204 b, 1205b of first and second segments 1204 and 1205. Cutouts 1221 extendoutwardly from the inner circumference of each clamping rings 1201, 1202to the terminal ends of the first and second segments 1204 and 1205.Cutouts 1221 allow the clamping rings 1201, 1202 to clamp on teefittings, cross fittings, as well as long and short radius ell fittings,as previously described.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-16B, FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view ofthe swivel assembly 1203 c; FIGS. 16A-16B illustrates a cross sectionalview of the swivel assembly 1203 c taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 14A.Swivel assembly 1203 c is substantially identical to swivel assemblies1203 a and 1203 b. As shown in FIG. 16A, swivel assembly 1203 ccomprises a first swivel portion 1501 connected to the first clampingring 1201 and a second swivel portion 1202 connected to the secondclamping ring 1202. First and second clamping rings 1201, 1202 comprisebores 1217 a, 1217 b transversely extending therethrough for receivingthe swivel assembly 1203 c. The first and second swivel portions 1501and 1502 are interconnected via bolt 1503. In a preferred embodiment, asshown in FIG. 13, at least one swivel assembly, in this case swivelassembly 1203 c, comprises a longer bolt 1503 such that the alignmenttool 1200 can be adjusted to fit elbow or ell-fittings, as previouslydescribed.

As shown in greater detail in FIG. 15, bolt 1503 comprises a shaft 1504connected to a head 1505. The head 1505 may comprise a grade eightsocket, or other types of shaped head or shaped recess, to enablerotation of the bolt 1503 using a complementary tool. Shaft 1504comprises a groove 1507 extending circumferentially thereon. Groove 1507is sized to receive a retaining ring or E-clip 1506. Shaft 604 furthercomprises threads 1511 extending circumferentially about the shaft 1504below groove 1507.

The first swivel portion 1501 comprises substantially similar, but ofvarying widths, retaining plates or saddle shaped portions 1508 a, 1508b, 1508 c, 1508 d, and 1508 e, a pair of swivel races 1509 a and 1509 b,and an axel alignment swivel 1510. The axel alignment swivel 1510comprises a longitudinal shaft 1521 with a partial spherical portion1522 at its center. The shaft 1521 is longitudinally cannulatedcomprising longitudinal bore 1527 for receiving the bolt 1503therethrough. The partial spherical portion 1522 comprises alongitudinal groove 1524 and the shaft 1521 comprises longitudinalgroove 1523 extending on each side of the partial spherical portion1522. Each of the pair of swivel races 1509 a and 1509 b comprisesemicircular inner surface 1526 that corresponds to the circumference ofthe partial spherical portion 1522.

As shown in FIG. 16A, the pair of substantially annular shaped bodies1231 a, 1232 a of first clamping ring 1201 are held together andseparated via retaining plate 1508 c located therebetween. Eachretaining plate 1508 a, 1508 b, 1508 c, 1508 d, and 1508 e comprises abore 1512 extending therethrough for receiving the axel alignment swivel1510. The axel alignment swivel 1510 extends through the bores 1512 ofretaining plates 1508 a, 1508 b, 1508 c, 1508 d, and 1508 e and bore1217 a of first clamping ring 1201 such that the partial sphericalportion 1522 is located within the bore 1217 a and bore 1512 of centralretaining plate 1508 c. The pair of swivel races 1509 a and 1509 b arelocated on either side of the partial spherical portion 1522 to retainit within the bore 1217 a of first clamping ring 1201. In a preferredembodiment, bores 1512 of retaining plates 1508 b and 1508 d comprisesmaller diameter than bore 1217 a of clamping ring 1201 such thatretaining plates 1508 b and 1508 d secure swivel races 1509 a and 1509 btherebetween within the bore 1217 a. Retaining plate 1508 c comprises aprojection 1528 (shown in FIG. 15) protruding from its inner surfacebetween swivel races 1509 a and 1509 b and which is received withinlongitudinal groove 1524 of partial spherical portion 1522. Projection1528 is used to hold the axel alignment swivel 1510 in place so that itdoes not turn axially with respect to the first clamping ring 1201 asthe bolt 1503 is turned to adjust the gap between the first and secondclamping rings 1201 and 1202. In addition, projection 1528 ensures thatthe transverse screws 1517 a and 1517 b are maintained centered inrelation to the longitudinal groove 1523 of the axel alignment swivel1510.

As shown in FIGS. 15-16A, retaining plates 1508 a, 1508 b and 1508 d,1508 e are secured to the opposing surfaces of the first clamping ring1201 using rivets 1515. In addition, retaining plates 1508 a, 1508 ecomprise transverse threaded bores 1514 a, 1514 b for threadablyreceiving threaded transverse screws 1517 a, 1517 b, respectively.Threaded screws 1517 a, 1517 b engage the longitudinal groove 1523 ofthe axel alignment swivel 1510 to radially adjust the axel alignmentswivel 1510 with respect to the first clamping ring 1201. Bolt 1503extends longitudinally through bore 1527 of axel alignment swivel 1510.The first swivel portion 1501 is retained between the bolt head 1505 andthe retaining ring or E-clip 1506 secured to groove 1507 of bolt 1503.

Referring back to FIG. 15, the second swivel portion 1502 comprises asecond partial spherical portion 1531, a pair of swivel races 1532 a and1532 b, and retaining plates or saddle shaped portions 1536 a, 1536 b,and 1536 c. The second partial spherical portion 1531 also comprises alongitudinal groove 1534 and an inner threaded bore 1539 for retainingthe threads 1511 of bolt 1503. Each of the pair of swivel races 1532 aand 1532 b comprise semicircular inner surface 1538 that corresponds tothe circumference of the partial spherical portion 1531.

Referring to FIG. 16A, the pair of substantially annular shaped bodies1231 b and 1232 b of second clamping ring 1202 are held together andseparated via retaining plate 1536 b. Each retaining plate 1536 a, 1536b, and 1536 c comprises a bore 1533 extending therethrough for receivingthe shaft 1504 of bolt 1503. The second partial spherical portion 1531is located within bore 1217 b of the second clamping ring 1202 and bore1533 of retaining plate 1536 b.

The pair of swivel races 1532 a and 1532 b are located on either side ofthe second partial spherical portion 1531 to retain it within the bore1217 b of second clamping ring 1202. In a preferred embodiment, bores1533 of retaining plates 1536 a and 1536 c comprise smaller diameterthan bore 1217 b of second clamping ring 1202 such that retaining plates1536 a and 1536 c secure swivel races 1532 a and 1532 b therebetweenwithin the bore 1217 b. Retaining plate 1536 b comprises a projection1535 (shown in FIG. 15) protruding from its inner surface between swivelraces 1532 a and 1532 b and which is received within longitudinal groove1534 of second partial spherical portion 1531. Projection 1535 holds thesecond partial spherical portion 1531 in place so that it does not turnaxially with respect to the second clamping ring 1202 as the bolt 1503is turned to adjust the gap between the first and second clamping rings1201 and 1202. Retaining plates 1536 a and 1536 c are secured to theopposing surfaces of the second clamping ring 1202 using rivets 1537.Bolt 1503 extends longitudinally through bore 1539 of second partialspherical portion 1531 such that threads 1511 of bolt 1503 engage theinner threads of bore 1539 of second partial spherical portion 1531.

In an alternative embodiment, the first swivel portion 1501 and thesecond swivel portion 1502 are substantially identical, both comprisingeither the adjustable axel alignment swivel 1510 or the second partialspherical portion 1531 as described above.

The following section describes how the alignment tool 1200 is attachedto the first and second straight pipe sections 1211 and 1212 to alignthese sections as shown in FIG. 12. Referring to FIG. 14B, as thealignment tool 1200 is in an unclamped position clamping ring 1201 fitsover pipe section 1211 by positioning the two semiannular segments 1204and 1205 around the pipe section 1211. The two semiannular segments 1204and 1205 are brought together around the pipe section 1211 such that theinner surfaces 1204 e, 1205 e of the two semiannular segments 1204 and1205 contact the outer surface of pipe section 1211 (FIG. 14A). Next,the toggle clamp 1208 is used to tightly secure the clamping ring 1201around pipe section 1211. Specifically, the adjustable plate 1214 oftoggle clamp 1208 is placed underneath the groove 1249 at the second end1205 b of the second semiannular segment 1205 by rotating the lockinglever 1219. If necessary, hexagonal nut 1215 is loosened tolongitudinally lower the adjustable plate 1214 along threaded rod 1213such that it can engage groove 1249. Once the adjustable plate 1214 isplaced underneath the groove 1249, nut 1215 may be tightened, biasingspring 1216. This brings second ends 1204 b, 1205 b of first and secondsegments 1204 and 1205 closer together, thereby tightening the clampingring 1201 around pipe section 1211. Clamping ring 1202 fits over pipesection 1212 in substantially the same manner as described above withreference to clamping ring 1201.

After clamping rings 1201 and 1202 are connected to pipe sections 1211and 1212, the clamping rings 1201 and 1202 are adjusted to bring theends of pipe section 1211 and 1212 in contact and in perfect alignment.As shown in FIG. 16A, to bring the ends of the pipes 1211 and 1212 to bejoined towards each other, head 1505 of bolt 1503 of each swivelassembly 1203 a, 1203 b, 1203 c is tightened forcing threads 1511 tofurther engage the inner threads of the spherical portion 1531. As aresult, clamping rings 1201 and 1202 are pulled in direction D8 towardseach other. Similarly, to bring the ends of the pipes 1211 and 1212 awayfrom each other, head 1505 of bolt 1503 of each swivel assembly 1203 a,1203 b, and 1203 c is loosened forcing threads 1511 to unthread from theinner threads of the spherical portion 1531.

Referring to FIGS. 16A-16B, to adjust the clamping rings 1201 and 1202transversely in relation to each other, the transverse screws 1517 a,1517 b of each swivel assembly 1203 a, 1203 b, and 1203 c, are eithertightened or loosened as required. Specifically referring to FIG. 16B,tightening transverse screw 1517 b and loosening transverse screw 1517 awill force the axel alignment swivel 1510 to swivel in clockwisedirection as transverse screws 1517 a, 1517 b engage the longitudinalgroove 1523 of the axel alignment swivel 1510. This causes the secondpartial spherical portion 1531 to also swivel in a clockwise direction.Accordingly, first clamping ring 1201 will be forced upward in directionD9 and second clamping ring 1202 will be forced downward in directionD10. To adjust clamping rings 1201 and 1202 transversely in a reversedirection or counterclockwise, transverse screw 1517 a is tightened andtransverse screw 1517 b is loosened as transverse screws 1517 a, 1517 bengage the longitudinal groove 1523 of the axel alignment swivel 1510.This causes the second partial spherical portion 1531 to also swivel ina counterclockwise direction. As a result, first clamping ring 1201 willbe forced downward and second clamping ring 1202 will be forced upward.This allows the alignment tool 1200 to transversely adjust the ends ofpipe sections 1211 and 1212 so that they are perfectly longitudinallyaligned and coextensive.

Alignment tool 1200 may engage various types of pipe segments, includingstraight pipe segments, elbow or ell-fittings, tee pipe fittings, branchportions of the tee pipe fittings in substantially the same manner asdescribed above with reference to alignment tool 100 in FIGS. 9A-11B.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, numerous variations maybe practiced within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Forexample, while manually rotatable bolts are illustrated tolongitudinally adjust the swivel assemblies, various well-known devicesmay be utilized in association with the swivel assemblies for ease ofadjustment, such as hydraulic rams, robotic arms, linear actuators, orthe like. In addition, various components such as the bolts, nuts andthe like may be provided with structures to capture and retain thesecomponents thereby eliminating loose parts which could possibly fallinto one of the pipes or in other areas in which the pipe modules areinstalled on board ship or in any other installation. Quick fastenerarrangements, ratchet devices and the like, may be utilized in lieu ofbolts depending upon the installation requirements. There may also bevariation in the procedure used to attach the alignment tool to thepipes and pipe fittings depending on the size and types of pipes or pipefittings used. Certain steps may be omitted or combined with other stepsand certain steps can be performed in a different order.

While the invention has been described with reference to the preferredembodiment and alternative embodiments, which embodiments have been setforth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a completedisclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary andare not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumerationof all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore,shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will beapparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be madein such details without departing from the spirit and the principles ofthe invention. It should be appreciated that the invention is capable ofbeing embodied in other forms without departing from its essentialcharacteristics.

What is claimed is:
 1. An alignment tool for positioning and aligningpipe ends comprising: a first and second clamping rings; and a pluralityof swivel assemblies connecting and circumferentially spaced about thefirst and second clamping rings; wherein the swivel assemblies adjustthe distance between the first and second clamping rings and adjust thefirst and second clamping rings transversely and axially with respect toeach other.
 2. The alignment tool of claim 1, wherein each of the firstand second clamping rings is annularly shaped and comprises a firstsemiannular segment and a second semiannular segment, wherein eachsemiannular segment radially extends from a first end to a second end.3. The alignment tool of claim 2, wherein the first ends of the firstand second semiannular segments are interconnected using double hingejoints.
 4. The alignment tool of claim 2, wherein the second ends offirst and second semiannular segments are interconnected usingadjustable latch toggle clamps.
 5. The alignment tool of claim 4,wherein each adjustable latch toggle clamp comprises a rounded lockinglever with outer surface configured to follow the annular shape of thefirst and second clamping rings.
 6. The alignment tool of claim 4,wherein each adjustable latch toggle clamp comprises a locking leverrotationally secured to respective second ends of the second semiannularsegments and a U-shaped rod rotationally secured to the locking lever,wherein each second end of first semiannular segment comprises a groovetransversely extending on its outer surface that is used to catch theU-shaped rod therein.
 7. The alignment tool of claim 6, wherein eachU-shaped rod comprises threaded ends such that the rod can belongitudinally adjusted with respect to the locking lever usinghexagonal nuts.
 8. The alignment tool of claim 4, wherein eachadjustable latch toggle clamp comprises a locking lever rotationallysecured to respective second ends of first semiannular segments, whereinthe locking lever comprises a threaded rod and an adjustable plate thattravels along the rod, and wherein each of the second ends of the secondsemiannular segments comprises a groove oriented and sized to receivesaid adjustable plate.
 9. The alignment tool of claim 4, wherein each ofthe first and second clamping rings comprises a recess in its outersurface sized to accommodate the adjustable latch toggle clamp such thatin a closed position the toggle clamp is substantially coextensive withthe outer circumference of the first and second clamping rings.
 10. Thealignment tool of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second clampingrings comprises a scalloped cutout on its outer surface such that ajoint on an inside radius of two transverse tubular sections can beaccessed during welding.
 11. The alignment tool of claim 2 furthercomprising a first pair of inner cutouts each extending outwardly froman inner circumference of each of the first and second clamping rings tothe first ends of the first and second semiannular segments.
 12. Thealignment tool of claim 11, further comprising a second pair of innercutouts each extending outwardly from an inner circumference of each ofthe first and second clamping rings to the second ends of the first andsecond semiannular segments.
 13. The alignment tool of claim 1, whereineach swivel assembly comprises a first swivel portion connected to thefirst clamping ring and a second swivel portion connected to the secondclamping ring, wherein the first and second clamping rings comprisebores extending therethrough that receive the plurality swivelassemblies.
 14. The alignment tool of claim 13, wherein each swivelassembly comprises a threaded bolt that adjusts the distance between thefirst and second clamping rings, wherein each threaded bolt extendsthrough said bores of the first and second clamping rings.
 15. Thealignment tool of claim 14, wherein the first swivel portion comprisesan axel alignment swivel including a longitudinal shaft with a firstpartial spherical portion at its center, wherein the partial sphericalportion is retained within a bore extending through said first clampingring.
 16. The alignment tool of claim 15, wherein the longitudinal shaftcomprises a longitudinal bore that receives the threaded bolttherethrough.
 17. The alignment tool of claim 15, wherein the firstswivel portion comprises: a pair of swivel races located on either sideof the first partial spherical portion to retain it within the bore ofthe first clamping ring; and a first pair of retaining plates thatretain the pair of swivel races and the first partial spherical portionwithin the bore of the first clamping ring.
 18. The alignment tool ofclaim 17, wherein the longitudinal shaft comprises longitudinal grooveson either side of the first partial spherical portion, wherein the firstpair of retaining plates comprise transverse threaded bores thatthreadably receive threaded transverse screws, and wherein thetransverse threaded screws engage the longitudinal grooves to axiallyadjust the axel alignment swivel with respect to the first clampingring.
 19. The alignment tool of claim 14, wherein the second swivelportion comprises a second partial spherical portion which is retainedwithin a bore extending through said second clamping ring.
 20. Thealignment tool of claim 19, wherein the second swivel portion axiallyadjusts the first and second clamping rings with respect to each other.21. The alignment tool of claim 19, wherein the second partial sphericalportion comprises an inner threaded bore that receives the threaded bolttherethrough.
 22. The alignment tool of claim 19, wherein the secondswivel portion comprises: a pair of swivel races located on either sideof the second partial spherical portion to retain it within the bore ofthe second clamping ring; and a second pair of retaining plates thatretain the pair of swivel races and the second partial spherical portionwithin the bore of the second clamping ring.
 23. The alignment tool ofclaim 1, wherein each of the first and second clamping rings comprises apair of substantially annular shaped bodies held together and separatedby a plurality of retaining plates.